DESIGN CONSULTANT

Successful and award-winning designs of home decors and accessories, furniture, gifts, fashion accessories and seasonal decors bought by major US, European, and Asian retailers such as Pier 1, Target, Crate and Barrel, and Body Shop. Liaised with factory owners in Asia and buyers for product development and sourcing.

PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT HEAD

Galleria Crafts, Inc.

Manila, Philippines

May 1996 - Oct 2013 (17 years 5 months)

Design for seasonal and home decors for US, Europe, and Asian markets.

LEAD DESIGN CONSULTANT

Conducted product development, skills and entrepreneurship training for members in Asia. Designs covered home and seasonal decors, home linens, furnishings and accents pieces, tabletop, fashion accessories, fine jewelry, toys, and musical instruments using various materials.

CHIEF DESIGNER AND BUYING AGENT

Frank and Schuster OHG

Aglasterhausen, Germany

Apr 1995 - May 1998 (3 years 1 month)

Product development, sourcing and trade fair merchandising for the floral, garden, craft, and hobby industries in Germany and other European countries. Vendors from the Philippines, India, Sri Lanka, Mexico, Poland, and Israel.

Education

Carl Duisberg Society (now GIZ: German Society for International Cooperation)